Kerry Wan/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeaways
- I’m upgrading to an Apple Watch Series 12 from a Series 10.
- This is mostly due to the watch’s new health benefits.
- I’m also intrigued by the tougher screen and the audio intelligence.
I typically hang on to an Apple Watch for several years after buying the latest model. But this year I’m making an exception. I plan to upgrade from my two-year-old Apple Watch Series 10 to a new Series 12. Most of the appeal comes from the latest health benefits, but there are other features that have sold me. Here are seven reasons why I’m buying an Apple Watch Series 12.
1. More accurate heart rate sensing
Right off the bat, one of the primary reasons I wear an Apple Watch is because of its health features. I had a heart attack around 12 years ago. Since then, I’ve become more diligent about monitoring my heart rate and other vital stats, and the Apple Watch is a convenient way to do that. This is even more true of the newest watches.
Also: Is Apple Watch 12 worth the upgrade? My advice as a Series 10 and 11 owner
With the Series 12 (and the Ultra 4), Apple promises more accurate heart rate monitoring thanks to new optical and electrical heart sensors. Based on information provided at Apple’s Wednesday iPhone event, the surface area where the watch’s sensor touches your skin is larger. The sensing photodiodes are laid out in a ring to better capture light. Plus, the LEDs are larger and more power-efficient. Add those all up, and the heart rate readings should be even more reliable than in the past.
2. Continuous heart rate monitoring
Here’s another aspect I like about the new heart rate monitoring. It’s continuous, measuring your heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. That means I can see current and past readings to make sure my heart is behaving, whether I’m at rest or exercising.
3. Frequent heart rate variability (HRV) sensing
Heart rate variability (HRV) measures any variation in the time between heartbeats. The rate can vary based on your current stress levels and other factors, but should be relatively consistent over time. The Series 12 can check your HRV every five seconds to get up-to-date readings. The watch also records two different measurements, according to Apple. Overall, HRV clues you in on your broader health, with an emphasis on heart health. Recovery HRV can detect daily signs of stress and recovery.
4. Readiness score of recent activity
With the Series 12 comes a new Readiness feature. Updated throughout the day, this one analyzes your recent activity, vital signs, and sleep. Based on the latest results, the feature assigns you a score from 0 to 10. A higher number indicates that you’re more energized and less fatigued. You’ll then see one of four labels: Recover, Pace Yourself, Ready, or Go For It. The idea is to help you plan the day’s activities more effectively based on your energy levels.
5. Tougher screens with Ceramic Shield
I’m always concerned about scratching my watch when I accidentally drop it or brush it against a hard surface. I’ve used screen protectors and even cases in the past, but I was never quite satisfied with them.
For the aluminum case version of the Series 12 (which I plan to buy), Apple has toughened the screen with Ceramic Shield 2. This type of cover class is “is tougher than any smartwatch glass and 60% tougher than the Ion-X of previous aluminum models,” according to Apple. I’ll naturally still try to avoid scratching my watch. But if I do, it promises to hold up better than past models.
6. Audio intelligence
Another Series 12 feature that got my attention is audio intelligence. By combining AI with the watch’s microphones, this one offers four distinct settings: Sound Recognition, Music Recognition, Live Rewind, and Siri Recap. Collectively, audio intelligence can detect sounds, identify music, play back the last few seconds of any audio you missed, and take notes on your conversations.
Also: Apple Watch Series 12 hands-on: I’m (unexpectedly) excited about what’s new
I’m particularly eager to try the music recognition as I’ve already used Shazam to identify songs I hear. Live Rewind and Siri Recap could prove controversial as they seemingly record not just you but also any audio or conversations with other people. As usual, Apple has tried to address any privacy concerns, but I’ll have to see how this works in the real world.
7. Battery life
Finally, there’s battery life. I charge my Apple Watch overnight, so it typically lasts the entire next day without needing a boost. But if I use the watch longer and more actively than usual, the battery can drain sooner than expected. The battery in the Series 12 is rated for up to 24 hours. Yes, that’s the same as the Series 11. But I’m coming from a Series 10, which is rated for up to 18 hours. So I should see a difference.
The Apple Watch Series 12 will hit stores on Friday, Sept. 18. That’s when I look forward to trying one on, testing it out, and walking out of the store with the new wearable on my wrist.
